Snakes

Rattlesnakes

Over 20 different species of rattlesnakes are recognized in the United States.
Some seldom reach a length of 2 feet and a few reach over 7 feet. All possess a
rattle at the end of the tail. A facial pit is located between the eye and
nostril. Crotalus have small scales on top of the head and Sistrurus, the Pigmy Rattlesnakes, possess large scales on top of the head. The
eyes are small, the pupils are elliptical.
All bites from rattlesnakes are dangerous, the Mojave Rattlesnake
appears to have the most toxic venom among the rattlesnakes in the United States.

The Eastern Diamondback rattlesnake is the largest of all venomous snakes in the
United States. Sullen disposition, bold and sometimes aggressive. Fangs can
measure one inch in large specimens. Venom is toxic.
Average length 5 feet, maximum length 7 feet.

Venom of the Massasauga rattlesnake is highly toxic to man. There are
authenticated fatal bites in man. Often called the Black Snapper or Swamp
Rattler. Found in bog areas, swamps and dry fields.
Average length 2 feet, maximum length 3½ feet.

Habits of the Mojave rattlesnake similar to western diamondback
rattler. This species has the most toxic venom of any North American
rattlesnake. It is very important to recognize the Mojave rattlesnake's severe
respiratory distress. It is often accompanied by its bite. Considered
extremely dangerous to man, fatalities are known.
Average length 3½ feet, maximum length 4 feet.

The Pacific rattlesnake is diurnal in its habits. Bites from this species are
common in the Northwestern states. Large enough to cause a fatality. Pacific
rattlesnakes can be found from sea level to 11,000 feet.
Average length 3½ feet, maximum length 5 feet.

Often called ground rattlesnake with a tiny rattle that sounds like an insect buzz
and can be heard for just a few feet. Venom of the Pigmy rattlesnake is toxic but
only a small amount is usually injected into a bite, not considered fatal to a healthy
adult.
Average length 18 inches, maximum length 2 feet.

This species has wide distribution and is common in many areas. The Prairie
rattlesnake is responsible for many snake bites. Venom is toxic, fatalities are
known.
Average length 3 feet, maximum length 5 feet.

A small desert rattlesnake which is a growing concern for snakebites because of
residential and recreational areas that are built in the desert. Fatalities are rare
from sidewinder rattlesnake bites because of small quantities of venom.
Average length 18 inches, maximum length 2½ feet.

The Timber rattlesnake is sometimes mild tempered and does a good deal of rattling
before striking. Commonly found in rocky wooded hills in the northern part of its
range. Fatalities are known from the bite of this snake.
Average length 3½ feet, maximum length 6 feet.

The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake is a large aggressive rattlesnake involved in
many snakebites every year in the United States. Having large fangs capable of
delivering a large amount of venom in one bite.
Average length 4½ feet, maximum length 6½ feet.

Our thanks and gratitude to Dr. Andrew Kouloulis, noted
herpetologist, for permission to use his research and pictures provided on these
pages. Information taken from Dr. Kouloulis' Poisonous Snake Chart.